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November 17, 2008
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2008 Gadget Guide: 11 Socially Responsible Inventions to Save the World

Devices to pump and filter water, protect against disease-carrying insects, and more

2008 Gadget Guide ScientificAmerican.com presents some of this year's most exciting high-tech toys as well as gadgets to make the planet greener and inventions designed to deliver the most basic needs to developing countries » November 18, 2008

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LIFESTRAW FAMILY: LifeStraw Family uses basically the same filtration technology as Vestergaard's original LifeStraw but is designed to serve an entire family. See our slide show featuring more socially responsible inventions. Image: Courtes of Vestergaard Frandsen Group

Some technology employs the most basic concepts (a hand crank, a straw or bicycle pedals) to find innovative ways of delivering basic needs such as water, light and transportation to areas where they have been absent.

Showcase for Socially Responsible Inventions

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